A review by birdbrainbooks
The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw

emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I love when I enjoy a short story collection, because they’re very hit or miss for me. This was a solid hit and a must-read for everyone. I eagerly look forward to more from Philyaw—she is a phenomenal writer. She uses very specific details to paint a complete picture of who someone is and where they’re from. I love short story collections that have a uniting theme, and here it’s looking into the private spaces that Black women find to explore their desires and needs, while grappling with the societal and religious expectations often thrust upon them. It’s a quick read too, so you have no excuse to not pick it up.
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